SINKING SPRING, Pa. — The Apple Dumpling Festival is back for its 73rd year, bringing thousands of people to Willow Glen Park in Sinking Spring.
“We have rides, games, bands, of course the Little Miss Apple Dumpling Pageant, and thousands of apple dumplings,” said organizer Patrick Konopelski.
What started decades ago is now a local tradition. It is built around food, family and one signature item.
“Apple dumplings… it’s very Pennsylvania Dutch. You can eat it for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Everybody has their favorite way,” Konopelski said.
For some, it is also part of growing up in the community.
“When I tasted it, I fell in love with it, and it just kind of became like a family tradition growing up,” said vendor Taryn Youst.
Youst now helps sell the dumplings.
“We probably sell thousands. People come out and buy dozens at a time,” she said.
Some even come early just to grab their dumplings before the crowds arrive.
“From 11 to 5, people come out before the actual festival starts. They pick them up and go,” Youst said.
And once the festival is in full swing, organizers say it becomes something bigger.
“It just kind of brings everybody together. They see their friends and neighbors. It’s a nice local carnival,” Konopelski said